The Woodlands House is exactly where you’d want a small, intentional day to unfold. Jeremiah and Danielle — Jerry and Dani to the people who love them — had been together fifteen years. Then they decided to get married, on their own time, in their own way. Just three of their closest friends and their partners came along. No big production. Instead, just the people who matter, somewhere beautiful, doing it exactly how they wanted. This is the kind of day I want more of.

Why The Woodlands House is a Dream elopement venue

If you haven’t heard of it, The Woodlands House sits on five acres of old-growth private forest near Mt. Hood, Oregon. Towering pines. Vaulted ceilings. Decks that look out over a trickling stream where deer actually come to drink. In short, it’s built for disconnecting. Plus, it’s about 30 minutes from Mt. Hood and the Columbia Gorge. It’s only 45 from the Portland airport, too. So it makes a ridiculously good home base for a PNW elopement.

The couple rented the house for themselves and their little crew. As a result, the whole day unfolded in one private, unhurried place. First, we met at the house. Then everyone got ready mostly together, which made for the most relaxed energy. After that, they saved final attire for the reveal.

A first look with a Mt. Hood view

Next, we slipped away to Trillium Lake for their first look and couple portraits. Mt. Hood stood right there in the background like it was posing too. Now, Jeremiah runs a little reserved in front of a camera at first. Most people do! But these two loosen up fast. Honestly, you can feel fifteen years of goofy, easy love the second they’re together. Subtle touches, quiet glances, the occasional crack-up. That’s my favorite kind to document.

A redwood ceremony and a greenhouse dinner

Then it was back to The Woodlands House for the ceremony among the redwoods. And oh, it was moody. Deep green, lush, a little wild. The florals carried it. They went heavy on burgundy and green, but in a dreamy, rich way rather than anything close to Christmassy. Meanwhile, Megan of Curated Mess pulled the whole day together. I cannot say this enough: if you’re planning something small because the budget’s there, hire a planner. It changes everything.

Afterward, dinner happened in the greenhouse off the side of the property. Miere Catering served a meal inside this magical little glass haven strung with fairy lights, tucked right in among the trees. Honestly, it’s one of the most beautiful intimate reception spaces I’ve gotten to be in.

Planning your own Woodlands House elopement

If a small, intentional day like this is what you’re after, The Woodlands House near Mt. Hood is hard to beat — and I’ll happily travel to Oregon to document it!!

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Let’s plan something unforgettable. Inquire and tell me where you’re headed!

Vendor Team:

Venue: The Woodlands House
Photography: Dani Rawson Photo
Planner & Design: Curated Mess Co.
Florals: Amarie Flora
Catering: Miere Catering
Dress: En Blanc Bridal
Suit: Indochino
Heels: Bella Belle
Mens Shoes: Christian Louboutin
Rings: Alexis Russell + Point No Point Studio